dubbed combs

[countrygirl345]

We have some mille fleur old english game bantam chicks. I read that the roosters should have their combs dubbed and females should not. We are planning on showing them this summer. I would like some more info on what dubbing is exactly and if they really need it, etc. Please help.

 

[BGMatt]

Dubbing is the cutting of the comb, wattles and earlobe. You plan to show so yes it must be done. There are multiple excellent tutorial videos on YouTube, however I would recommend contacting a local Old English Game Breeder and having them show you in person how it is done. Much like cropped ears in dogs if not done properly a bad dub job can penalize the bird.

 

[countrygirl345]

What about the hens?

 

[BGMatt]

What about the hens?

Pullets and hens do not get dubbed, only the cocks and cockerels.

 

[gjensen]

Matt, can the cockerels be shown with out having been dubbed?

 

[BGMatt]

Matt, can the cockerels be shown with out having been dubbed?

There's a cutoff date, I think it's Sept or Oct 1st...would have to look it up, I have never seen an undubbed bird place well, even if shown before that deadline. (It goes without saying that after that deadline since it's an automatic disqualification.)

 

[gjensen]

There's a cutoff date, I think it's Sept or Oct 1st...would have to look it up, I have never seen an undubbed bird place well, even if shown before that deadline. (It goes without saying that after that deadline since it's an automatic disqualification.)

10-4. I thought that I had heard of some sort of allowance, and I saw a couple un dubbed birds shown. I really do not know, so I asked.

 

[Sonoran Silkies]

Cockerels must be dubbed by November. If you dub a bird too early, the comb, etc. are still maturing and growing, and ou will probably have to do it a second time. If the birds are too young to be dubbed, they are probably too young to be shown (and place well).

 

[countrygirl345]

Who should be contacted for more info? Could a vet give advice on that?

 

[BGMatt]

Who should be contacted for more info? Could a vet give advice on that?

I would find a local Old English Game breeder and see if they'll teach you. If not there are some fairly good tutorials on youtube. You'll see from them a good indication of what a comb ready for dubbing looks like. 4-6 months is the usual window of age, some guys wait a bit longer.